The Kings dropped five of their next six games - including the two against the Hawks - before they charged back into contention with their recent hot streak.

"When we played Wollongong, we were right in the middle of that four-game losing streak," Heal said.

"We averaged in the 60s during that six-game period. Over the last six games we averaged about 98, so we're a completely different team. We were always going to be able to settle in and get them to understand what their roles are with such a big influence like Sam coming in," Heal said.

Young went missing in the initial meeting with the Hawks, hitting just 5/13 shots and racking up seven turnovers.

He was far more effective in the second clash, tallying 28 points, seven rebounds, three assists, two blocks, a steal and only one turnover.

"It was a real big experience for Sam to come into, because he's used to playing an NBA style where the court is so much more open, so it couldn't be a bigger contrast playing against Wollongong and their switching zone," Heal said.

"For somebody like Sam, it's a real adjustment and learning experience playing against the Hawks.

"We've had to re-visit that during the week as far as what he has to expect against Wollongong."